Research the school for which you are writing the personal statement. Look at their mission and values and think about these things as you write your personal statement.
Identify any unique skills, qualifications, interests and personal values that you possess. Record these things so you can reflect on them during the writing process. Your personal statement should be just that: personal. The best way to make it personal is by focusing on what makes you different from other applicants.
Specifically answer any questions that the application asks. Do not leave out any details that your reader may find important just because you are unsure whether they are relevant. Chances are you have had some experiences that seem insignificant to you but that colleges may actually value.
Concentrate on making your first paragraph as professional and engaging as possible. The opening paragraph is your opportunity to grab the attention of your reader and make them interested in you as a candidate. Don't waste the chance.
Focus on detailing your specific experiences that relate to the field you are applying for in the body of your personal statement. You should be able to express your interests and talents in that field to demonstrate that you are passionate about the program for which you are applying.
Use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation when writing. Don't be sloppy. Do not rely on spell-check software. Write and rewrite your personal statement to ensure that you are not overlooked because of silly errors.
Follow guidelines of word limits. Many schools are very specific about how many words they want candidates to include in their personal statements. Going over the limit gives them an opportunity to reject you simply because you cannot follow direction.